Did you like the now non-existent Windows Live Messenger or do you prefer Skype? Read now to find out about these IM platforms and my opinions on them!

Both of these are very popular and we still know them today – well we remember Windows Live Messenger and most of us really miss it; you could say Skype is like our updated Windows Live Messenger. Let me tell you a bit about them both!

Windows Live Messenger

Windows Live Messenger was an IM client that started back in 1999 as MSN Messenger. This was developed by a popular technology company called Microsoft – they developed this for many platforms including Windows, Xbox 360, BlackBerry, and iOS. This was branded under MSN until 2005 when they re-branded it under Windows Live – thus the name changed from MSN Messenger to Windows Live Messenger – which most of us remember it as today. Unfortunately the IM client closed in 2013 (2014 in China) because of Microsoft acquiring Skype; this change was announced a year earlier. You could show yourself on webcam on this service and instantly message people – hence it being an IM client.

Skype

Skype is an IM and calling client that still runs today. This is used to video and audio chat people and is used by many people. Users can also log into Skype with their Microsoft Account. There is a currency called Skype Credit which is used for SMS or to call Mobiles/Landline. Skype was first released in 2003 and was later on acquired by eBay for $2,6 billion in 2005.  6 years later Microsoft bought Skype from eBay for $8.5 billion. Due to this acquisition Windows Live Messenger was discontinued in 2013 (2014 in China). Users can exchange documents, files and images via message conversations – normal messages can also be sent (obviously). Skype can be used on platforms including iOS, Windows, BlackBerry and Android.

Which one I prefer

Now I think Skype is good and I use it. However I do prefer and miss Windows Live Messenger because it brings back memories. I felt that there was more customisation in this client than Skype. I really wish that Windows Live Messenger was still around.

Which one do you prefer? Do you wish Windows Live Messenger was still around? Let me know in the comments section below – and don’t forget to check out the other articles on Habbox.com!